For centuries, human beings have dreamed of flying. All kinds of daredevils have built devices to fly of their own volition. Not all have worked... and not all their pilots survived. Once inventors figured out they needed a balance between weight, power and aerodynamics they were able to get sufficient lift to stay in the air. Here are 10 of the most exciting attempts at personal flight.

In an era of constant innovation and discovery, we may not realize that most inventions take years to develop. But sometimes, all it takes is an accident. Here are 10 inventions we'd never be able to enjoy if not for an apparent mistake.